Divorce and Custody Research

Financial outcomes by state

How much is alimony in your state?
A typical U.S. divorce could end with an alimony payment ranging from $0 to $1,381 a month depending on the state. In two-thirds of states, there's not a reliable way to predict alimony at all. See also: Appendix

Map: How much is child support in your state?
The size of your child support payment depends heavily on where you live, according to research from Custody X Change. A typical parent's payment can vary by over $700 a month from state to state. See also: Appendix

Custody schedules

Map: How much custody time does Dad get in your state?
Custody X Change conducted a first-of-its-kind study and found that parenting time varies dramatically as you cross state lines. Nationwide, a father is likely to receive about 35% of child custody time. See also: Appendix

Hennepin County's top custody schedules determined for first time
Court records reveal the most popular custody schedules in Hennepin County, Minnesota. They may also shine light on schedule trends in other regions, where records are often harder to access.

Other research

1 in 4 states don't require judge to consider child's custody preference
Only one U.S. state lets a child choose who takes custody of them. More than a quarter of states don't even require a judge to consider a child's preference.

Make peace with your ex: Kids do best after divorce if parents get along
Parents who get along well after their divorce are 53% likelier to say their kids adjusted well than parents who get along badly. Could this encourage co-parents to act civilly for the sake of the kids?

Statistics: Hire a divorce attorney for the best custody outcome
When both parents have attorneys, they're more likely to share joint custody and settle out of court. Other surprising divorce and custody stats.

Legal professionals: Speak with us
We interview legal professionals so we can provide practical information to help parents ensure the best possible future for their children.